Reanne El Sayed
Studying health science at UTS opened up many pathways for me!
Tell us a little about yourself!
I’m a Lebanese Australian, born and raised in Sydney. I’ve always been passionate about the different sectors within the health industry because I believe there is never a boring day with new clients and patients every day. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, building Lego’s and baking (particularly brownies).
Since graduating from high school, I’ve worked in early education with a variety of children who never fail to surprise me. Seeing the little kids retain all the information they are taught, and learning to write their names and sentences, and read sight words at such a young age makes me feel assured for the future!
Why did you choose to study Health Science (now Public Health) at the University of Technology Sydney?
While I was in my final years of high school, I was still very unsure with what type of career I wanted to pursue but I knew I wanted something in the health field. I was keen to have hands on experience in health clinics and meet new clients every day. I was drawn to the different possible pathways which can be pursued subsequent to a degree in health science.
What was your experience like being a Health Science (now Public Health) student?
I was super excited to finally be starting uni. My cohort got to experience our first day on campus, then the COVID restrictions hit, and we were all subjected to online learning. It was a new experience, but the teaching staff made it more enjoyable with interactive activities, especially kahoot. I majored in human structure and function, so most of the subjects related to my major were at the Moore Park campus, in my final year.
After graduating, how did your career path evolve? Tell us about your current role and what you enjoy most about your work.
During my undergrad, I had my heart set on physiotherapy. However, during my professional placement, I was exposed to orthoptics and applied to a Master of Orthoptics at UTS immediately. Seeing how passionate the orthoptists were with vision therapy and helping patients achieve high quality vision was refreshing. I’ve built a major interest in orthoptics and binocular vision, particularly in paediatrics and elderly patients. I have also learnt to appreciate how privileged we are to be able to see the world around us. I look forward to starting my placement in orthoptic and ophthalmic clinics next semester!
What do you hope to achieve in the future?
In the near future, I really hope to work as an orthoptist in a children’s eye clinic to help young kids achieve their greatest vision possible. I hope to build on my current experience of working with young children and continue to communicate and inspire their tiny hearts, brains and eyes.
Do you have any advice for people considering studying at UTS?
Studying health science (now Public Health) at UTS opened up many pathways for me, especially since I was considering a masters after graduating. I was exposed to how health systems function, and the benefits we have as Australian citizens with the Australian health care system, in comparison to the rest of the world. UTS has a great level of facilities available to the students, from academic facilities to entertainment and socialising functions. If you are thinking of studying, even if you aren’t sure of the career you’d like to pursue, I urge you to consider a degree in health science (now Public Health). You’ll be exposed to various careers and opportunities that may spark interest you didn’t even know you had!